Register your interest to receive updates and information about our Entry Level Programs.
2025 Graduate Development Program applications have now closed. Applications for the 2026 program will open in March 2025. Read more about the Graduate Development Program.
2025 Australian Government School Leaver Program are now open and close in September 2024. Read more about the Australian Government School Leaver Program.
2024-25 University Vacation Employment Program applications have now closed. Applications for the 2025–26 Program will open from July 2025. Read more about the University Vacation Employment Program.
2024 Stepping Into Winter applications have now closed. Applications for the 2025 Program will open in March 2025. Read more about Stepping Into Winter.
2024 Indigenous Apprenticeships Program applications have now closed. Applications for the 2025-26 program will open in early 2025. Read more about Indigenous Apprenticeships.
2024-25 Science Policy Fellowship Program applications will open in Mid-Late 2024. Read more about the Science Policy Fellowship.
We are looking for motivated people who want to take up the opportunity to join the Australian Public Service and make a real difference to the lives of all Australians.
We lead the Australian Government's efforts to secure the nation's economic future, improve living standards and connect our communities.
We build stronger communities and a stronger nation by ensuring our infrastructure, transport and communications systems are fit for purpose today and into the future. We also work to support and protect our unique cultural heritage and ensure all Australians can enjoy diverse artistic and cultural experiences.
We are committed to supporting and engaging with First Nations staff and communities. This is demonstrated in our recently launched Innovate Reconciliation Action Plan 2022-2024.
In 2019, Diversity Council Australia recognised us as an inclusive employer for our diversity measures.
If you are seeking an opportunity to join a dynamic department doing meaningful work that enriches our nation's communities, empowers our regions and leaves a positive impact for generations to come, we encourage you to apply for one of our entry level programs.
We have a range of Entry Level Programs:
- Our Graduate Development Program is an 11 month program designed to develop the skills and experience of university graduates for a career in the Australian Public Service. Our graduates complete three diverse rotations and undertake a graduate certificate as part of their tailored development program.
- The Australian Government School Leaver Program provides an opportunity for Year 12 graduates to start their career in the Australian Public Service. As a School Leaver, you will complete a Certificate IV in Government or Human Resources Management. The program runs over a 12-month period and is jointly coordinated by the Department of Finance and the Australian Taxation Office.
- Our University Vacation Employment Program is an internship run over the summer university break for current university students. It provides interns with the opportunity to work across a diverse range of portfolio areas and gain experience in program management, policy development, finance, media and communications or corporate.
- The Stepping Into Program is a national initiative by the Australian Disability Network which offers practical paid work experience for successful students with disability who may face significant obstacles in gaining employment. The program brings together participating employers with skilled and talented university students with disability seeking jobs and creates a talent pipeline that actively builds diversity and inclusion.
- Program are run at the same time, providing an extended cohort for support.
- The Indigenous Apprenticeships Program is a pathway for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people to start their career in the APS. The program is run by Services Australia and aims to equip apprentices with the skills to achieve a successful career in the APS including undertaking a Certificate IV or a Diploma qualification. This program won the Stan Grant Indigenous Employment Award at the 2018 Australian HR Institute Awards!
- The Science Policy Fellowship is an initiative of the Office of the Chief Scientist that aims to grow the diversity of expertise in the Australian Public Service workforce. It provides a pathway for early- to mid-career scientists to become skilled policy practitioners.
Explore career opportunities
Find out more about the work we do and what might interest you by clicking on the below links.
- Aviation
- Cities
- Territories
- Transport
- Maritime
- Post
- Regional
- Media, Technology & Communications
- Corporate
- Arts
- Rail